What time do I need to arrive at the Center for my procedure?
We ask that you arrive one hour prior to your scheduled procedure time. The arrival time is typically given to you by your physician. One hour prior to the procedure allows time to complete the paperwork process and prepare you for the procedure.
^ Back to Top ^
Can I drive myself home after the procedure?
No, If you do not have a person to accompany you on discharge, YOUR PROCEDURE WILL BE CANCELLED.
^ Back to Top ^
Who can I call to ask if I have any questions about my procedure preparation?
Each physician differs slightly on their patient preparation for the procedures. Depending on the presence of any pre-exisiting problems or medications a physician may individualize the preparation process. So we recommend you call the office of the physician who scheduled your procedure. If you do not know their name or phone number you can contact us at 559-440-9100.
^ Back to Top ^
How long will I be at the center?
The approximate total time at the center from admission to discharge is typically 2-2 1/2 hours. We plan one hour prior to your procedure, most procedures take 1/2 hour and recovery time is typically 45 minutes. Patients who are having both an upper endoscopy and colonoscopy will be with us an additional 1/2 hour.
If you are having a Liver Biopsy your stay in our recovery area will be approximately 2 to 3 hours.
Please keep in mind that some procedures may take longer than planned due to the routine variances of the procedures. This can add time to your stay.
^ Back to Top ^
Does the endoscopy center bill for the physician's fees? Are there any other fees I should expect?
Center California Endoscopy Center is responsible for billing only the facility fees. We will bill your insurance first then bill you for any remaining patient responsibilities after they have paid. The physician performing the procedure will be billing for their professional fees out of their office.
Any specimens taken will be sent to Saint Agnes Medical Center or Pathology Associates for processing. We send your insurance information with the specimen and the lab will bill your insurance for the specimen processing. In addition the pathologist who provides the report on the specimens will also bill your insurance company for their professional fee.
^ Back to Top ^
How much will my procedure cost?
There are many variances in insurance plans and out of pocket expenses. To get an idea of what it will cost for your procedure please call our business office biller at 559-448-8356. Please have your insurance card in hand as there is often information on the back of the card that assists them in identifying the correct plan.
Keep in mind that we are only addressing the facility fee and not the physician's fee or any pathology lab or pathologist expense.
^ Back to Top ^
Can I go back to work after the procedure?
Almost all of our patients receive sedation for their procedure. If you receive sedation for your procedure you will be instructed to stay at home, rest and not drive for the remainder of the day. The following day you can return to your normal activities, unless told otherwise by your physician.
^ Back to Top ^
What do I need to bring with me when I arrive for my procedure?
Items to bring with you:
Your insurance card(s) so that we can take a copy and bill your insurance.
A complete list of current RX medications and dosages. This includes over the counter medications and dietary supplements.
A medical history.
A copy of your advance directive if you would like us to have one.
Please leave all valuables at home.
^ Back to Top ^
|